Connective tissue diseases are actually a group of medical diseases. A connective tissue disease is any disease that has the connective tissues of the body as a primary target of pathology. The connective tissues are the structural portions of our body that essentially hold the cells of the body together. These tissues form a framework, or matrix, for the body. The connective tissues are composed of two major structural protein molecules, collagen and elastin. There are many different types of collagen protein that vary in amount in each of the body's tissues. Elastin has the capability of stretching and returning to its original length, like a spring or rubber band. Elastin is the major component of ligaments (tissues that attach bone to bone) and skin. In patients with connective tissue diseases, it is common for collagen and elastin to become injured by inflammation.

Many connective tissue diseases feature abnormal immune system activity with inflammation in tissues as a result of an immune system that is directed against one's own body tissues (autoimmunity).

Diseases in which inflammation or weakness of collagen tends to occur are also referred to as collagen diseases. Collagen vascular disease is a somewhat antiquated term used to describe diseases of the connective tissues that typically include diseases that can be (but are not necessarily) associated with blood vessel abnormalities.

Hi I'm glad you posted,im in same position as you also had sinus surgery still numerous sinus infections. Hugh antibodies for me uctd also connective tissue discease. A overlap if lupus raynaunds syndrome etc.no dairy sinus rinsing,nasal spray help alot.

Aww,sorry hear that. It's kinda same as me.have rhinitis allergic type so that caused swelling then congestion gets stuck same as you..the sinus rinsing helps get stuck congestion out do twice day like warm boiled water sinus rinse sachet. Ent recommend them they prescribed one kit before surgery and one for post surgery.which I now buy online.as gp not allowed prescribe it due costs.

You might also like to join Vasculitis UK HealthUnlocked because of your sinus problems and positive ANCA. Vasculitis is also an autoimmune/ connective tissue disease which can affect people's sinuses and nerves as well as skin. Many people have overlap on this and the Vasculitis communities. I have RA, Hashimoto's with Sjogrens, Raynaud's and other bits and pieces. I use four HU communities but only this one and NRAS regularly.